Pre-Contemplation
Sometimes when we need to think about things
that are too difficult to deal with, we use what are
called “defense mechanisms” to avoid thinking
about the problem. These “defense mechanisms”
Identifying Defense Mechanisms
are usually thoughts we have that stop us from
admitting that there is a problem. These thoughts
also help us to avoid unpleasant feelings. Most of us don’t realize it when we use “defense mechanisms,”
but it can help us to be aware when this happens so that we do not ignore important problems that we
need to solve. Below is a list of the most common defense mechanisms. Select the ones that you use
most often:
My parents don’t buy
healthy food.
No one eats
healthy.
I may not be the healthiest person in
the world, but I’m not that bad.
Rationalizing
Blaming
There is no
problem with
my health.
I can start eating
healthy whenever
I want.
None of my friends or
family is healthier than
me – we are all the same.
Reacting
Denying
I don’t have
time to
exercise.
I’ve tried to
be healthier,
but it doesn’t
work.
Making Excuses
Come up with your own:
It’s annoying when
people try to tell me
how to take care of
myself.
I’m tired
of people
talking about
healthy
eating and
exercise.
I will have time
this summer to
get in shape.
Procrastinating
I will start exercising
when final exams are
over.
For More Information visit: www.HealthyMeFlorida.com